Malaysia attracts interest of Chinese investors in Sarawak aluminium manufacturing

Malaysia could attract a significant new investment in aluminium manufacturing, with Chinese investors assessing potential sites in Sarawak as they look to expand their international business. Samalaju Industrial Park in Bintulu is among the locations under consideration, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

The proposed facilities could serve downstream industries, including construction and automotive manufacturing, while helping Malaysian-made products reach a wider customer base. According to Ahmad Zahid, the prospective investors would bring established market networks that could support the expansion of Malaysia’s exports.

To facilitate the proposal, Ahmad Zahid said he would approach the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry about setting up a one-stop centre for the investors.

“God willing, I will inform the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry so that a one-stop centre (OSC) can be established to facilitate their investments in Malaysia,” he told reporters in Beijing on October 14.

The plan is not yet finalised. Any investment would require approval from the Sarawak state government and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, he said.

Explore the production, demand and consumption forecasts of bauxite and alumina in our report: "Global Bauxite & Alumina Market Forecast to 2036: Supply–Demand, Trade Flows & Price Outlook"

Ahmad Zahid is visiting Beijing and Tianjin on a five-day working trip aimed at strengthening Malaysia-China relations and expanding cooperation across key sectors. He said his focus would include attracting high-technology manufacturing projects.

“Several sectors have been identified, but I will assist the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry and focus on high-technology manufacturing,” he said.

The proposed project also aligns with Malaysia’s efforts to draw investment beyond established industrial centres. Ahmad Zahid pointed to incentives for investments outside these zones outlined in the Prime Minister’s Budget 2027 speech.

Employment and skills development are another potential benefit. If the projects proceed, they could provide jobs for young Malaysians and create opportunities for technical and vocational education providers to work more closely with industry.

“At the same time, TVET institutions could provide training through a factory-teaching approach, allowing our students to learn and gain exposure to high-skilled technical fields when these investments materialise,” he added. 

Find the right unwrought aluminium for your business. Browse a comprehensive list of primary aluminium products on AL Biz.